CVE-2023-36022 is a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability identified in Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) version 1.0.0. The root cause is linked to CWE-94, which involves improper control of code injection, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the browser process. The vulnerability requires no privileges (PR:N) and no authentication but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as visiting a crafted malicious webpage or opening a malicious link. The CVSS 3.1 score of 6.6 reflects a medium severity, with a high impact on confidentiality (C:H), low impact on integrity (I:L), and low impact on availability (A:L). The attack vector is local (AV:L), indicating that the attacker must have some form of local access or the ability to lure a user into executing malicious content. The vulnerability is exploitable without known exploits currently in the wild, but the potential for exploitation exists due to the nature of the flaw. The vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to data exposure or system compromise within the browser environment. No official patches or mitigation guidance have been published yet, although Microsoft has reserved the CVE and marked it as published. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for organizations relying on Microsoft Edge for web access, as it could be leveraged to bypass security controls and execute malicious payloads remotely.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to confidentiality and availability of systems accessed via Microsoft Edge. Attackers exploiting this flaw could execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, or disruption of services. Organizations in sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure that rely heavily on Microsoft Edge are at heightened risk. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be effective attack vectors. The medium severity indicates that while the vulnerability is serious, it is not as immediately critical as those allowing unauthenticated remote exploitation without user interaction. However, the widespread use of Microsoft Edge in Europe, combined with the strategic importance of data handled through browsers, amplifies the potential impact. Without timely patching or mitigation, attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain footholds in enterprise environments, potentially leading to lateral movement and further compromise.

European organizations should prioritize upgrading Microsoft Edge to the latest available version beyond 1.0.0, as this version is specifically affected. Until patches are released, organizations should implement strict web filtering policies to block access to untrusted or suspicious websites that could host exploit payloads. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions with behavioral analytics to detect anomalous browser activity indicative of exploitation attempts. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of interacting with unsolicited links or attachments. Network segmentation can limit the impact of a compromised endpoint. Additionally, organizations should monitor threat intelligence feeds for updates on exploit availability and apply any emergency mitigations or workarounds recommended by Microsoft promptly. Disabling or restricting the use of legacy or unsupported browser versions in enterprise environments is critical. Finally, applying application control policies to restrict execution of unauthorized code within browser contexts can reduce exploitation risk.